2009 FAD COMPETITION & AWARDS FINAL
14 finalists in fashion ‘Space Race’

Press coverage from the 2009 FAD Competition

In one of the most electric FAD Competitions yet, 14 finalists from universities/colleges around the UK, went head to head on the Vauxhall Fashion Scout catwalk on Tuesday 24th February in front of a house packed with key industry and press.

2009 FAD Competition winner, Ana Belen Meroño, Nottingham Trent University

After a dazzling and galactic display, Nottingham Trent fashion student, Ana Belen Meroño was announced as the winner of this year’s top prize – £2,000 and an industry placement with designer and FAD Frontline member, Paul Costelloe.

“I think it is the most amazing opportunity I have ever had. Because of this competition, I will probably have the opportunity to find a good job, to have contacts with the industry. It was such a good experience. I’m never ever going to forget this moment.” – Ana Belen Meroño, Winner of the 2009 FAD Competition

2009 FAD Competition winner, Ana Belen Meroño, Nottingham Trent University

The young designer, originally from Madrid, impressed the jury with her sophisticated and highly polished designs, winning by a unanimous vote. Her first garment was a structured jacket featuring a digital Op-Art print, while the second outfit paired a cosmic cloud print dress with ‘armour’ inspired layering. Designer Paul Costelloe and jury member Dolly Jones (Editor, Vogue.com) welcomed the delighted Ana Belen onto the stage to collect her award.

“Ana’s outfit wasn’t alienating in its flamboyance, it was actually rather a beautiful thing to wear as well. You could see it translating into real life which I think is essential because when you are trying to reach people who aren’t in fashion, you want them to be inspired and make them feel they want to wear those clothes." – Dolly Jones, Editor of Vogue.com

Anthea Godfrey, William Tempest, Dolly Jones and Paul Costelloe & menswear designed by runner-up, Felicity Baggett

An excited Felicity Baggett, also of Nottingham Trent University was announced as the first of two runners up by jury member and young designer William Tempest. Her wearable menswear collection was inspired by space suits, featuring subtle planetary patterns and vacuum moulded spheres. Meanwhile Anthea Godfrey, Chairman of this year’s jury had the pleasure of awarding Camilla Kennedy, Birmingham City University, the second runner up prize for her cubist silver dress and simple, red and black jumpsuit. Both students received £1,000 and an industry placement with designers Margaret Howell and Religion respectively.

2009 FAD Competition runner-up, Felicity Baggett, Nottingham Trent University

Fourteen finalists from ten UK universities/colleges took part in the show, presenting a collection inspired by this year’s brief: ‘Urban Holographic’. For 2009 FAD asked students to explore the concept of Retrofuturism and space tourism; looking back at 1960’s curved design and films such as ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ to create fashionable ‘uniforms’ for galactic hosts/hostesses. In the final each student presented two outfits, drawing inspiration from the planets and solar system for colour, print and embellishment.

“We’ve been involved with FAD for a couple of years now and we’ve really enjoyed working with their students and winners. A lot of students go through our company but I think anyone who comes through FAD is a professional, as near as professional as can be without having the experience of working in the industry." – Paul Costelloe, Designer and FAD Frontline member

Camilla Kennedy, 2009 FAD Competition runner-up

Now in its 8th year, the FAD Competition is dedicated to highlighting and supporting undergraduate talent, providing a platform for young designers to showcase before they graduate. It is heavily supported by industry with representatives from Harrods, French Connection, Marks & Spencer, Margaret Howell, Religion, Jasper Conran and Vivienne Westwood attending this year’s show.

Photo Credits: Ian Gillett